sap (part 1 - fsp) - 20120717 - otr.cfo.dc.gov · approximately 185 cu ft of soil (>1-3 ppm) pcb...

Benning Road Facility DRAFT July 2012 Sampling and Analysis Plan Field Sampling Plan

Tables

Table 1

Historical Removal Actions and Investigations

Benning Road Facility RI/FS Project

3400 Benning Road, NE

Washington, DC 20019

Date Incident / Investigation Location Activities

May-85 PCB Cleanup: Underground pipe leaked waste

transformer oil containing PCBs.

Underground pipe leading from

Kenilworth Transformer Shop

(Current Building 56)

Removal of aboveground storage tank,

associated piping, and excavation of PCB-

contaminated material >5 ppm

(approximately 288 cu ft)

Sep-88 PCB Cleanup: Soil contamination detected under

concrete pad used to prepare off-line PCB capacitor

banks for disposal in area formerly used to store used

electrical equipment.

Parking lot located in the northeast

portion of facility.

Removal of approximately 2500 cu ft (389

tons) of PCB-contaminated material (>5

ppm), including concrete slab.

1989-91 UST Removals: A total of 6 USTs were removed/closed

in place during this period

550-gal #4 (south of bulk tank #1)

4,000-gal diesel (fuel island)

15K-gal #2 (est of Units 13 and 14)

2,000-gal used oil (Fleet Main.)

250-gal #4

10K-gal Diesel (Fuel Island)

All UST removals were inspected and

approved for closure by the District.

Mar-91 PCB Cleanup: PCB capacitor leaked approximately 8

pounds onto concrete surface and seeped through

expansion joints.

Concrete covered area located

between Buildings 42 and 61

Approximately 126 cu ft PCB contaminated

soil (>25 ppm PCBs) were removed and

backfilled. Concrete replaced.

Apr-95 PCB Cleanup: PCB containing caulk and joint filler

located inside cooling tower structures were found to be

impacting the cooling tower concrete basins, sludge and

water inside the basins, and soil adjacent to the basin's

wall expansion joints. Pre-cleanup sediment sampling

results from cooling tower blowdown discharge location

upstream of Outfall 013 indicated no PCBs above 1 ppm.

Unit 15 and 16 cooling tower basins

and surrounding soil

Approximately 185 cu ft of soil (>1-3 ppm)

PCB was excavated. Old joint filler and

caulk were removed and the expansion joints

and basin were double washed and rinsed.

The basin was encapsulated with concrete

sealant after all rinse water was removed.

Sep-96

to Mar-97

Intake Dredging: Dredging of Station Intake for creation

of wetlands

Generating station intake and points

up- and downstream

Intake area in the Anacostia River was

dredged and the dredge spoils were used to

construct wetlands. Pre- and post-dredge

sediment samples exhibited total PCBs of

119-934 ppb.

Apr-97 USEPA Multi-media Inspection: NPDES, RCRA and

TSCA compliance inspection conducted by USEPA.

Entire facility No compliance problems noted. PCBs at

0.25-3.13 ppm detected in residue samples

from storm sewers inlets and outfalls.

Elevated concentrations of heavy metals

were also detected.

Dec-99 Phase I Environmental Site Assessment: conducted

by PHI in anticipation of property transaction.

Entire facility Recognized environmental concerns noted

oil staining at two #4 and #2 fuel oil

recirculation ASTs located east of the

generating station. No concrete bottom

noted in the containment areas.

Nov-03 Salvage Yard Investigation: Soil investigation was

completed in area formerly used for storing used

electrical equipment.

Salvage yard located west of

Buildings 75 and 88

Approximately 296 cu ft of PCB

contaminated material (>1 ppm) was

removed from the site. TPH-DRO was

detected, but were below DCDOH

requirements upon final excavation.

Jun-09 USEPA Site Inspection: Site Inspection conducted

during 2008 to determine further actions under CERCLA.

Former sludge dewatering area and

the Anacostia River water and

sediments

Metals, PAHs and PCBs were detected in

the former sludge dewatering area and in

Anacostia River sediments at concentrations

exceeding the screening levels. USEPA

links the historical discharges at the site to

contamination found in river sediments.

Jan-10 Phase I ESA: conducted in connection with substation

expansion.

18.5-acre area in the eastern and

southern portions of the site that will

be impacted by the substation

expansion.

Conclusions noted potential for petroleum,

metals and PCB impacts of subsurface soils

and recommended sampling to develop

proper health and safety and soils

management procedures during

construction.

Page 1 of 1

Table 2 Landside Data Quality Objectives

Benning Road Facility 3400 Benning Road, N.E.

Washington, DC

DQO Step Site-Specific Information

Step 1: State the Problems Based on limited sediment sampling, PCBs, PAHs, and metals were detected at elevated levels in the Anacostia River in the vicinity of the Benning Road facility (the Site). Additional environmental assessment including soil and groundwater sampling is necessary at the Site to characterize environmental conditions, refine the CSM and to determine whether past or current conditions at the Site have caused or contributed to contamination of the river. This data is also needed to evaluate the potential for risk to human health and evaluate potential remedial alternatives.

Step 2: Identify the Decisions 1) Has the nature and extent of soil and groundwater contamination been adequately delineated?

2) Are potential target chemical concentrations detected in soil, groundwater or storm drain impacting the river currently or in the past?

3) Is the site-specific hydrogeology and volumetric flux of groundwater to the Anacostia River well understood in the context of the CSM?

4) Is the storm drain system and associated discharge to the Anacostia River at various outfalls well understood in the context of the CSM?

5) Are the target chemical concentrations in soil and groundwater at the Site greater than background concentrations?

6) Are the target chemical concentrations in soil or groundwater present at levels that indicate the potential for risk to human health or the environment?

Step 3: Identify Inputs to the Decision The key inputs for making the required decisions are briefly summarized as follows:

1) Historical hydrogeological information, geotechnical information, analytical data and Site use/operations documentation.

2) Potential surface soil impacts will be evaluated by collecting 20 surface soil samples for PID and XRF instrument field screening.

3) Potential current or historic discharges from the storm drain system will be evaluated by sampling 5 sediment/residue and 5 water samples. Forensic analysis will be performed on up to 2 samples.

4) Five (5) HSA geotechnical soil borings and ERI will be performed to verify existing data and better characterize Site lithology and potential impacts, respectively.

5) 40 DPT soil borings with XRF field instrument screening and TPH/PCB aroclor analysis using on-site mobile laboratory will be performed to evaluate potential subsurface impacts. Discrete groundwater sampling at DPT locations will be performed to evaluate potential groundwater impacts.

6) HSA-installed monitoring wells, groundwater sampling, and aquifer testing will be performed following site-wide assessment to evaluate potential groundwater impacts and Site-specific hydrogeology.

7) A comprehensive analysis for VOCs, SVOCs, Metals, PCBs, Pesticides, Dioxin, and Furans will be performed selectively in the various media sampled to evaluate for these potential impacts.



Washington, DC


Step 4: Define the Study Boundaries The Landside investigation includes Target Areas identified within the 77-acre Site (i.e. Benning Road Facility located at 3400 Benning Road, Northeast in Washington, DC). The Site is bordered by a DC Solid Waste Transfer Station to the north, Kenilworth Maintenance Yard (owned by the National Park Service, NPS) to the northwest, the Anacostia Avenue and Anacostia River to the west, Benning Road to the south and residential areas to the east and south (across Benning Road).

Step 5: Develop a Decision Rule

1) Historical information will be reviewed to identify potential sources of target chemicals and contamination at the Site. Past or current sources at the Site will then be evaluated using ERI followed by confirmatory soil and groundwater samples at target zones to delineate potential zones of impact and identify any continuing sources of contamination.

2) An evaluation will be performed which compares the analytical results to background to see if the concentrations are consistent with background concentrations. Should concentrations be less than or consistent with background concentrations, then this suggests no unacceptable risk attributable to the Site.

3) If the groundwater and soil concentrations of target chemicals are at or below the conservative human health screening values, then the potential source area will be recommended for no further evaluation.

4) If the soil or groundwater concentrations are above the screening values at a potential source area, the Site data will be further evaluated, including a fate and transport analysis of the target chemicals to characterize the potential impacts to the river.

Step 6: Specify Tolerable Limits of Decision Errors

The data quality indicators for screening and definitive data are defined in terms of the precision, accuracy, representativeness, completeness, and comparability (PARCC) parameters. The assessment of the data quality indicators is necessary to determine data usability and involves the evaluation of the PARCC parameters. To ensure the quality and integrity of the project data, the precision and accuracy of the analysis, the representativeness of the results the completeness of the data, and the comparability of the data to existing data will be evaluated.

Data that meet the DQOs and fulfill project goals will be deemed acceptable. Data that do not meet objectives and goals will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis to ascertain its usefulness. To limit errors made based upon analytical data, the reporting limits (practical quantitation limits) for target analytes have been established at a level at least three times less than the action limit whenever technically feasible. In general, statistical analysis will not be used to determine decision error tolerance limits. Generally each sample will be used to make a decision.



Washington, DC


Step 7: Optimize the Design The sampling design incorporates a progressive elimination approach using screening parameters to help focus the sampling and analysis for target chemical concentrations over the Site. The variability of data will have an effect on the sampling design. If necessary, the sample frequency and the analytical procedures may undergo changes to optimize the design. The design options, such as sample collection design, sample size and analytical procedures will be evaluated based on cost and ability to meet the DQOs.

Table 3 Waterside Data Quality Objectives


Washington, DC


Step 1: State the Problems Based on limited sediment sampling, PCBs, PAHs, and metals were detected at elevated levels in the Anacostia River in the vicinity of the Benning Road facility (the Site). Additional sediment and surface water sampling is necessary to identify potential Site-related, near-Site and far-Site sources of COPCs in sediment and surface water and evaluate the potential for risk to human health and the environment.

Step 2: Identify the Decisions 1) Has the nature and extent of sediment contamination been adequately delineated?

2) Are the target chemical concentrations in surface sediments adjacent to the Site greater than upstream from the Site?

3) Are the target chemical concentrations in sub-surface sediments adjacent to the Site greater than upstream from the Site?

4) Are the target chemical concentrations in surface water adjacent to the Site greater than upstream from the Site?

5) Are detected concentrations in surface water or sediment present at levels that indicate the potential for risk to human health or the environment?

6) Is sedimentation in the portion of the Anacostia River in Study Area well understood in the context of the CSM?

7) Are the target chemical concentrations in sediment or surface water present at levels that indicate the potential for risk to human health or the environment?

Step 3: Identify Inputs to the Decision The key inputs for making the required decisions are briefly summarized as follows:

1) PCBs and PAHs within the Anacostia River will be evaluated by sampling surface water and sediment (surface and sub-surface) from within the Waterside Investigation Area and background locations for laboratory analysis.

2) Inorganics within the Anacostia River will be evaluated by sampling surface water and surface sediment from within the Waterside Investigation Area and background locations for laboratory analysis of inorganics, hardness (water only), grain size (sediment only), TOC (sediment only), and SEM/AVS (sediment only).

3) VOCs, SVOCs, Pesticides, Dioxins, and Furans within the Anacostia River will be evaluated by sampling a sub-set of surface water and sediment (surface) samples from within the Waterside Investigation Area and background locations for laboratory analysis.

4) A sub-set of sediment samples will be collected and submitted for forensic laboratory analysis of PCBs and PAHs to differentiate between Site-related, near-Site and far-Site sources of COPCs.

Step 4: Define the Study Boundaries The Benning Road facility is located at 3400 Benning Road, Northeast in Washington, DC. The Waterside investigation will primarily address sediment conditions within an area of the Anacostia River approximately 10 to 15 acres in size including approximately 2,500 linear feet to the south (approximately 700 feet south of the Benning Road Bridge) and 1,000 linear feet to the north of the Sites main storm water outfall area.

Table 3 Waterside Data Quality Objectives


Washington, DC


Step 5: Develop a Decision Rule

1) A benchmark comparison will be conducted to determine whether the sediment and surface water concentrations of organic and inorganic constituents adjacent to the site are above human health and ecological benchmarks, indicating the potential for risk.

a. If the benchmark comparison indicates that adjacent concentrations are below human health and/or ecological benchmarks, then this suggests no unacceptable risk attributable to the site.

b. If the benchmark comparison indicates that adjacent concentrations are above human health and/or ecological benchmarks, then additional investigation may be necessary.

If the constituent concentrations are less than the sediment quality benchmarks, then those contaminants are not expected to contribute to total site risk. If the contaminant concentrations are greater than the sediment quality benchmarks, then further evaluation may be required.

2) A statistical evaluation will be conducted to determine whether the sediment and surface water concentrations of organic and inorganic constituents adjacent to the site are consistent with upstream conditions.

a. If the statistical evaluation indicates that adjacent concentrations are less than or consistent with upstream concentrations, then this suggests no unacceptable risk attributable to the site.

b. If the statistical evaluation indicates that adjacent concentrations are greater than upstream concentrations, then additional investigation may be necessary.

Step 6: Specify Tolerable Limits of Decision Errors

The data quality indicators for screening and definitive data are defined in terms of the precision, accuracy, representativeness, completeness, and comparability (PARCC) parameters. The assessment of the data quality indicators is necessary to determine data usability and involves the evaluation of the PARCC parameters. To ensure the quality and integrity of the project data, the precision and accuracy of the analysis, the representativeness of the results the completeness of the data, and the comparability of the data to existing data will be evaluated.

Data that meet the DQOs and fulfill project goals will be deemed acceptable. Data that do not meet objectives and goals will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis to ascertain its usefulness. To limit errors made based upon analytical data, the reporting limits (practical quantitation limits) for target analytes have been established at a level at least three times less than the action limit whenever technically feasible. In general, statistical analysis will not be used to determine decision error tolerance limits. Generally each sample will be used to make a decision.

Table 4: Landside Data Collection Program


3400 Benning Rd, N.E.

Washington, DC

Data Type Data Use Approximate Quantity Methods

Surface Soil Samples (Phase I)

25 locations

TPH (8015), VOC (8260), PCB

(8082), Metals, EPA 16 PAHs

(8270)

Up to 10 locationsVOCs (8260), SVOCs (8270),

Pesticides, and Dioxins/furans

Forensic analysisEvaluation of PCB and PAH origin

and contributionUp to 5 locations

PCB 680 Homologs and/or PCB

1668 Congeners, PAH fingerprinting

Water Surface water discharge pathway 5 locations

PCBs (8082), PCB (608), EPA 16

PAHs (8270), dissolved and total

Metals, VOCs (8260), TPH (8015),

Pesticides

Sediment Surface water discharge pathway 5 locations

PCBs (8082), PCB (608), EPA 16

PAHs (8270), Metals, VOCs (8260),

TPH (8015), Pesticides

Forensic samplesPCB and PAH origin, site

reference, surface water pathwayUp to 2 locations

PCB 680 Homologs, PCB 1668 B

Congeners, PAH fingerprinting,

dioxins/furans

Surface Geophysics (Phase I)

Electrical Resistive Imaging

(ERI)

Evaluation of subsurface geology,

obstructions, NAPL plumes and

optimization of soil boring and

monitoring well placement

Up to 8 transects of 300-

500 ft long

Geo Trax Survey

Lithology Subsurface geology Continuous Visual identification

PID Reading Screening for VOCs Continuous Field methods

Geotechnical Subsurface geology 25 samples (5 locations,

and up to 5 samples per

location)

ASTM Grain size and Atterberg

limits

Geotechnical Subsurface geology 10 Shelby tubes (5

locations and two

samples per boring)

ASTM Permeability

Subsurface Soil and Groundwater Samples (Phase II)

Direct Push (Geoprobe)

Borings to 5 ft below

groundwater

Subsurface geology, identification

of free phase oils

40 locations Visual identification

VOC Vapor Screen Rapid characterization, flexibility to

field adjust sampling grid

Continuous Photoionization Detector (PID) field

instrument

Metals screen Subsurface soil quality, rapid

characterization, flexibility to field

adjust sampling grid

120 samples (three

depths at 40 locations)

X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) field

instrument

Soil chemical Rapid characterization, flexibility to

field adjust sampling grid

120 samples (three

depths at 40 locations)

Mobile lab TPH (8015) and PCBs

(8082)

Soil chemical Metals confirmation/correlation 24 samples (20% of 120) Metals (fixed lab)

Soil chemcial Evaluation of subsurface soil quality Up to 40 samples VOCs (8260), PAHs (8270)

Soil chemical Evaluation of subsurface soil quality Up to 10 samples Pesticides, SVOC (8270),

dioxins/furans

Groundwater chemical Evaluation of groundwater quality 40 locations Mobile lab TPH (8015) and PCBs

(8082)

Groundwater chemical Evaluation of groundwater quality 40 locations VOCs (8260), EPA 16 PAHs (8270),

total and dissolved metals

Chemical analysis Evaluation of surface soil quality

Storm Drain System (leading to Outfall 013) Sampling (Phase I)

Soil Borings to 100 ft below grade (Phase I)

Table 4: Landside Data Collection Program



Washington, DC

Groundwater chemical Evaluation of groundwater quality Up to 10 samples Pesticides, SVOC (8270),

dioxins/furans

Forensic analysis Evaluation of PCB and PAH origin

and contribution

Up to 5 soil/groundwater

samples

PCB 680 Homologs, PCB 1668

Congeners, PAH fingerprinting

GW elevation monitoring Determine depth to groundwater

and groundwater gradient

TBD Gauging

Aquifer testing Evaluation of aquifer

characteristics

TBD Slug Testing

Chemical analysis Evaluation of groundwater quality TBD VOC (8260), PCB (8082), dissolved

and total Metals, EPA 16 PAHs

(8270), SVOC (8270), pesticides

Chemical analysis Evaluation of groundwater quality TBD Pesticides, dioxins/furans


and contributionTBD



Horizontal and vertical

surveys

To locate all sampling points All locations sampled in

Phases I, II and III

GPS surveys

* Number and location of monitoring wells to be determined following evaluation of results from Phase I and Phase II.

Civil Surveying

Monitoring Wells to the top of Arundel Clay (Phase III) *

Table 5: Waterside Data Collection Program



Washington, DC

Data Type Data Use Approximate Quantity Methods

River Bottom Surveys (Phase I)

Bathymetric survey

Understanding of depth of the

water column and configuration of

river bottom

Investigation area and

background locations

USACE Hydrographic survey

methods (Differential Geographic

Positioning System, DGPS)

Utility SurveyConfirm utilities and other

underwater obstructions

Investigation area and

background locationsSide scan sonar

General chemistryEvaluation of surface water quality

near sediment-water interface

20 locations

(10 transects + up to 10

background)

Field methods for measuring

temperature, pH, turbidity, dissolved

oxygen and conductivity

20 locations

(10 transects + up to 10

background)

PCBs (8082), EPA 16 PAHs (8270),

and Total and dissolved phase

Metals (including hardness)

Up to 10 locationsVOCs (8260), SVOCs (8270),


55 samples

(45 near the site + up to

10 background)

PCBs (8082), Metals, EPA 16 PAHs

(8270), AVS/SEM

Up to 20 samplesVOCs (8260), SVOC (8270),


Sediment characteristics

Evaluation of surface sediment

quality and background surface

sediment quality

55 samples


10 background)

Total Organic Carbon (TOC), ASTM

grain size


and contributionUp to 8 samples



Vibracore Borings (8 to 10 ft

deep depending on refusal)Sediment physical characteristics

55 samples


10 background)

Visual identification

Chemical analysis

Evaluation of subsurface sediment


sediment quality

165 samples

(3 depths at 55 locations)PCB (8082) and PAH16 (8270)


and contributionUp to 7 samples



GeotechEvaluation of subsurface sediment

physical characteristicsUp to 20 samples ASTM Grain size and TOC

Surface Water Samples (Phase II)

Surface Sediment Samples (Phase II)

Subsurface Sediment Samples (phase II)

Chemical analysis Surface water impacts

Chemical analysis

Evaluation of surface sediment


sediment quality

Table 6

Summary of Calibration Frequency and Criterion for Field Instruments

Benning Road Facility

3400 Benning Road, N.E.

Washington, DC

Check: Every 15 samples and at the end of the day pH 7 reference bufferWithin

Benning Road Facility DRAFT July 2012 Sampling and Analysis Plan Field Sampling Plan

Appendix A

Field Standard Operating

Procedures

Project Operating Procedures Benning Road Facility RI/FS Project

June 2012


Site: Benning Road Facility 3400 Benning Road, N.E. Washington, DC 20019 Prepared by: AECOM 8320 Guilford Rd., Suite L Columbia, MD 21046

July 2012


July 2012

Contents

Sediment Core Sampling POP 005 ...................................................................................... 1

Sealed-Screen Groundwater Profiling PO 016 ................................................................... 7

Niton XL3t 600 XRF POP 028 ............................................................................................. 10

Field Records POP 101 ...................................................................................................... 15

Chain of Custody Procedures POP Number: 102 ............................................................ 18

Packaging and Shipping POP 103 .................................................................................... 21

Decontamination of Field Equipment POP Number: 105 ................................................ 26

Investigative Derived Waste Management POP 106 ........................................................ 30

Surface Water Sample Collection POP Number: 201 ...................................................... 36

Sediment Sampling POP 202 ............................................................................................. 41

Subsurface Soil Sampling by Direct Push Methods POP Number: 301 ........................ 45

Subsurface Soil Sampling by Hollow Stem Auger and Split-Spoon Sampler Methods POP 302 ......................................................................................................... 51

Surface Soil Sampling POP Number: 304 ........................................................................ 56

Soil Sampling via Hand Auger POP 305 ........................................................................... 60

Monitoring Well Construction and Installation, POP Number: 401 ................................... 64

Monitoring Well Development POP Number: 402 ............................................................ 69

Water Level Measurement in a Monitoring Well POP 403 ............................................... 74

Low Flow Groundwater Sampling POP 404 ..................................................................... 77

Headspace Analysis of VOCs in Unsaturated Soil Samples POP 501........................... 84

Water Quality Instrumentation POP 502 ........................................................................... 87


July 2012

List of Acronyms

C degrees Celsius

CFR Code of Federal Regulations

F degrees Fahrenheit

DI Deionize

DIUF deionized ultra-filtered water

DO dissolved oxygen

eV electron volts

GPS Global Positioning System

HASP Health and Safety Plan

IDW investigation derived waste

LNAPL Light Non-Aqueous Phase Liquid

MDS Multi parameter Display System

mg/L Milligrams per liter (parts per million)

MS/MSD Matrix Spike / Matrix Spike Duplicate

mV millivolts

NCR Nonconformance Report

NIOSH National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health

NIST National Institute of Standards & Technology

ORP Oxidation Reduction Potential

OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration

oz ounce

PDA Personal Digital Assistant

PID photoionization detector

POP Project Operating Procedure

PPE personal protective equipment

ppm parts per million

Project Benning Road RI/FS

QA/QC Quality Assurance/Quality Control

QAPP Quality Assurance Project Plan

RCRA Resource Conservation and Recovery Act

RF Outside Electronic Noise

SAP Sampling and Analysis Plan

TOC Top of Well Casing

S/cm microsiemen per centimeters

U.S. EPA United States Environmental Protection Agency

UV ultraviolet

VOCs Volatile Organic Compounds

YSI YSI Incorporated


Page 1

July 2012 Sediment Core Sampling POP 005

Sediment Core Sampling POP 005

1.0 Scope and Applicability

Selection and proper use of sediment sampling equipment is essential to the collection of accurate, representative sediment data that will meet the project Data Quality Objectives (DQOs). Most sediment collection devices are designed to isolate and consistently retrieve a specified volume and surface area of sediment, from a required depth below the sediment surface, with minimal disruption of the integrity of the sample and no contamination of the sample. The purpose of this document is to define the project operating procedure (POP) for collecting sediment cores using a vibracoring device.

This POP describes the equipment, field procedures, materials, and documentation procedures necessary to collect cores associated with the Benning Road Project using a vibracore.

2.0 Health and Safety Considerations

The health and safety considerations for the work associated with this POP, including physical, chemical, and biological hazards, are addressed in the site specific Health and Safety Plan (HASP; AECOM 2010) and associated task hazard analysis forms (THAs).

The health and safety considerations for the work associated with vibracoring include:

The physical hazards of handling heavy equipment,

Overhead lifting hazards using boat based winches and A-frames,

Marine safety aspects of the program, and

The specific chemical hazards related to the sediments.

Daily safety briefs will be conducted at the start of each working day before any work commences. These daily briefs will be facilitated by the Site Safety Officer (SSO) or his/her designee to discuss the days events and any potential health risk areas covering every aspect of the work to be completed. Weather conditions are often part of these discussions. As detailed in the site specific HASP, everyone on the field team has the authority to stop work if an unsafe condition is perceived until the conditions are fully remedied to the satisfaction of the SSO.

If sampling from a boat, all sampling personnel must wear personal flotation devices (PFDs) when in the boat, and must follow all health and safety protocols for working in a boat presented in the project-specific health and safety plan. Care should be taken to avoid splashing when lowering the sampler and/or messenger into the water. Lifting the samplers into the boat, dumping its contents, and washing those contents may require leaning over the side of the boat. Care should be taken to keep the boat in proper balance at all times during sampling.

3.0 Interferences

Cross contamination may occur if the sediment samplers and associated equipment are not properly decontaminated between each use. Procedures for proper decontamination of field equipment are presented in POP 105- Decontamination of Field Equipment. Sampler-specific interferences are presented below.

Vibracoring methodologies can disrupt surface sediment, as well as consolidate/compact sediment layers and restrict the entry of soft horizons from entering the core tube thereby biasing profile results and confusing recovery information.

The Field Task Manager should continually monitor the core progression and ensure that the core sample is not vibrated excessively if the downward progression has ceased. Common interferences encountered during core driving include:

Interference Possible Effect Action Taken to Minimize Effect

Vibratory action Consolidate/compact

sediment during driving

Free fall the corer when possible and vibrate only as needed to

advance the tube; use of a piston to improve recovery; establish

minimum acceptance criteria

Loss of material out

bottom

Less drive length achieved;

gaps in retained sediment

Use core catcher

Blocking Material doesnt enter core Move off station and re-drive; establish minimum acceptance criteria


Page 2


tube or lessens recovery

Angled entry Drive length less than

expected and fore-shortened

Make sure that wire line is vertical before core driving

4.0 Equipment and Materials

Sampler-specific equipment and supplies are listed below. Not all equipment listed below may be necessary for a specific activity. Additional equipment may be required, pending field conditions.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) and other safety equipment (refer to HASP);

Sampling vessel;

GPS or other positioning equipment;

Vibracore device;

Deployment equipment (e.g., A-frames, winches, generator);

Decontaminated core tubes liners;

Decontaminated stainless steel core catcher;

Decontaminated stainless steel core cutter;

Core storage racks to hold cores vertical and cold during temporary storage on-board coring vessel;

Waterproof logbooks, pens, and labels;

Core collection log

Permanent marker or grease pencil;

Line with weight and 0.1 foot increments indicated

Tape measure and ruler;

Tubing;

Core tube caps;

Electrical or duct tape;

Cell phone

Nitrile gloves

Polarized sunglasses

Sample containers, labels, and preservatives

Personal flotation devices (PFDs), if sampling from a boat

Chest waders, if sampling on foot

Surveyor rod or weighted line, if sampling on foot

Camera; and

Decontamination equipment/supplies (POP 012- Decontamination of Field Equipment).

5.0 Procedures

Depending on the characteristics of the site being investigated, sediment core samples may be collected from a boat, or by sampling personnel in waders. In all instances, sediment sampling should begin from the most downstream location and proceed to the most upstream location. If sediment samples are collocated with surface water samples, the surface water sample should be collected prior to the sediment sample in order to avoid increased turbidity from displaced sediment. Regardless of the type of sediment sampling equipment used, documentation of field observations and collection activities should be recorded on the sediment sampling sheet. The following observations should be recorded on the sediment sampling sheet for all sediment sampling activities:

Weather conditions and other relevant site conditions


Page 3


Sample location

Depth of water to the nearest 0.1 foot. A surveyor rod or weighted line may be used. If the surveyor rod is

used, minimize water turbulence and do not disturb any sediment.

Physical characteristics of the water body such as estimated current speed (stagnant, slow, medium, or fast)

and direction, odor, color, presence of any dead vegetation, surface sheens, etc.

Sediment color

Sediment grain size

Specific procedures for the collection of sediment core samples using a vibracoring device are presented below.

5.1 Sampling procedures

This section gives the step-by-step procedures for collecting cores using a vibracore. Observations made during sediment core collection should be recorded on core collection log and logbook.

5.2 Decontamination of equipment

Decontamination of the core tubes, stainless steel core cutter, and stainless steel core catcher assemblies will be performed prior to vessel departure in accordance with procedures outlined in POP 105 Decontamination of Field Equipment). A sufficient amount of decontamination equipment and supplies will be brought on the coring vessel to accommodate the need for miscellaneous, unforeseen decontamination. New core liners/caps will be used for the project and will not require decontamination. The liners will be kept in the manufacturer-supplied packaging (plastic bag) until removed for use. Any liners not kept in closed packaging will be decontaminated prior to use according to POP 012 - Decontamination of Field Equipment.

5.3 Collection of cores

1. Initiate the Core Collection Log.

2. Put on all necessary PPE (including a PFD, if sampling by boat)

3. Attach core catcher

4. Obtain water depth (to nearest 0.1 foot)

5. Slowly lower the vibracore through the water column to the sediment surface using the winch or other

deployment equipment.

6. Record the zero mark on the winch cable.

7. Slowly lower vibracore into sediment under its own weight until it stops.

8. Turn on the compressor/ actuate the hydraulics. Slowly penetrate the sediment to the target penetration,

or until refusal.

9. Lower vibracore approximately 1 foot beyond target to obtain a plug at the bottom of the core (i.e., to

minimize loss of sediment from core).

10. Upon completion of the required penetration, or upon vibracore refusal, turn the compressor/ hydraulics off.

Record the vibracore penetration depth on the Core Collection Log.

11. Record the final core location coordinates.

12. Slowly raise the vibracore, while maintaining the core in a vertical position as field conditions allow.

13. Bring vibracore to sampling vessel deck while maintaining the core in a vertical position. Remove core

cutter and core catcher, replace with cap, and secure cap with duct tape.

14. Clean the vibracore barrel and coring assembly by hosing down the equipment with site water as described

in POP 105 Decontamination of Field Equipment.

15. Remove the core tube from the vibracore barrel and place a cap on bottom of the coring tube, keeping the

core tube in an upright position, as field conditions allow.

16. Return the vibracore device to its onboard, deck storage location.


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17. Clean the core tube by hosing it down with site water. Care should be taken not to direct water into the

open end of the core tube.

18. Evaluate whether core penetration and recovery are acceptable using the procedures outlined in Sections

5.4 and 5.5, respectively.

19. Keeping the core tube upright, as field conditions allow, use a core cutter to cut/hole in the core tube

approximately 3 to 4 inches above the sediment to allow excess water to seep from the core tube.

Continue to make cuts/holes in the core tube, lowering 1 inch each time until reaching the sediment/water

interface. When all excess water has been drained from above the sediment/water interface, cut off

excess core tube.

20. Cap the cut end of the tube, secure cap with duct tape, and draw an arrow toward the cap. Draw an arrow

on the coring tube with permanent marker and label top to indicate the top of the core. Label the core

with the location ID, date, and time, and record this information on the Core Collection Log.

21. Measure the recovered length of the sediment in the core tube (to the nearest 0.1 foot to the extent

possible) and record it on the Log. The distance between the top of the sediment in the coring tube and

the bottom of the coring tube corresponds to the recovered length. Apparent gaps should be noted on the

Log and the length and location(s) of the gap(s) should be noted. The total gap length will be subtracted

from the total recovery length.

22. Store the core vertically in a core storage rack (capable of keeping cores cold) while on the vessel until it

can be transported to the sample processing area. Cores greater than 4 feet will be segmented on the

vessel to allow for storage and transportation. Cut these cores at the location of a planned sample

segmentation using a core cutter and recap the exposed ends. Add appropriate markings to indicate the

location and segment of each section.

5.4 Procedures for determining acceptable core penetration

1. Calculate penetration percentage using the following equation:

Actual penetration is the depth advanced into the sediment not including the depth advanced to form a plug.

2. Record penetration percentage on the Core Collection Log.

3. If penetration is 80%, then penetration is acceptable. Proceed to Section 5.5, Procedures for Determining

Acceptable Core Recovery.

4. If penetration is 80%

penetration, contact Project Manager or Field Task Manager to determine if additional cores should be

attempted.

5.5 Procedures for determining acceptable core recovery

1. Calculate recovery percentage by the following equation:

2. Record recovery percentage on the Core Collection Log.

3. If recovery is 80%, then recovery is acceptable. Continue processing core, then move to a new core

location.

4. If recovery is 80% recovery, contact Project Manager or Field Task Manager

to determine if additional cores should be attempted.

100feetnpenetratiotarget

feetnpenetratio actual%nPenetratio

100

feetnpenetratio actual

(feet)gapsfeetrecovery%Recovery


Page 5


5. Record all attempts on the Core Collection Log. Communications with the Field Task Manager will be

documented in the field logbook. Failure to collect a core at a specified location will be recorded in the

logbook.

5.6 Management of cores

1. Verify that the lengths of the core tubes, water depth, and positioning data have been recorded on the Core

Collection Log.

2. Prior to transit to the next coring location or returning to shore, decontaminate the coring equipment and

sampling vessel decking as described in POP 105 Decontamination of Field Equipment.

3. Proceed to next core location specified for that day and repeat above procedures.

4. Completed Core Collection Logs and a Sample Chain of Custody will be provided when relinquishing cores

for processing/analysis.

5.7 Core processing

1. Each core will be logged, photographed, and sub-sampled as per the specified analytes require.

2. The appropriate sediment horizon will be removed from the core tube using a stainless steel spoon/scoop

and placed in a decontaminated 1-gallon stainless steel or Pyrex glass mixing bowl.

3. Each sample will be visually examined for physical characteristics such as composition, layering, odor, and

discoloration.

4. Samples will be homogenized in the mixing bowl and placed in appropriate sample containers.

5. Sediment sampling equipment such as bowls, spoons, augers, and dredges will be decontaminated prior to

and following sample collection as described in POP 105.

6.0 Quality Assurance / Quality Control

All sediment sampling equipment will be thoroughly decontaminated prior to and in between use according to the procedures described in POP 105- Decontamination of Field Equipment

Field accuracy will be assessed through the collection and analysis of equipment blanks. Equipment blanks will be collected for each type of sediment sampling equipment in accordance with the Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP).

Field precision will be assessed through the collection and analysis of field duplicates. Field duplicates will be collected in accordance with the SAP.

Entries on the forms and in the field logbook will be double-checked by the samplers to verify the information is correct. Completed forms will be reviewed periodically by the Field Task Manager and/or Project Quality Assurance Officer or his/her designees to verify that the requirements are being met.

7.0 Data and Records Management

All data and information (e.g. type of sample equipment used) must be documented on the sediment coring log and/or field logbooks with permanent ink. Deviations to the procedures detailed in this POP should be recorded in the field logbook.

Data recorded will include the following:

Weather conditions

Sample location

Sampling equipment type

Date and time of sample collection, and the initials of the sampler

Sediment characteristics (e.g. color and particle size)

Depth of sediment sampled

Water depth


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Physical characteristics of the water body such as estimated current speed (stagnant, slow, medium, or fast),

odor, color, presence of any dead vegetation, surface sheens, etc.

Samples and quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) samples collected

The chain of custody form will be completed following sample collection describing all pertinent sample information, site information, intended analyses, etc. This form must be completed properly and the intended recipients must receive their respective copies.

8.0 Personnel Qualifications and Training

All field samplers are required to take the 40-hour Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) Hazardous Waste Operations training course and annual 8-hour refresher training prior to engaging in any field collection activities. The individuals executing these procedures will have read, and be familiar with, the requirements of this POP and the corresponding Work plan. Actual vibracoring operations will be conducted only by personnel experienced with the equipment, but subsequent manipulations, measurements, cutting and labeling procedures are relatively simple and can be implemented by personnel without specialized training. It is recommended that initial core manipulations and handling activities be supervised by more experienced personnel

The Project Manager is responsible for ensuring that project-specific requirements are communicated to the project team and for providing the materials, resources, and guidance necessary to perform the measurements in accordance with this POP and the project plan. In the absence of a Field Team Leader, the Project Manager is responsible for ensuring that field records are reviewed and approved as described below.

The Field Team Leader is responsible for reviewing and approving the field records for accuracy, completeness, and conformance to the procedures in this POP.

Field personnel are responsible for recording data according to the procedures outlined in this POP.

9.0 References

POP 101-. Field Records

POP 105- Decontamination of Field Equipment


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July 2012 Sealed-Screen Groundwater Profiling POP 016

Sealed-Screen Groundwater Profiling PO 016


This Project Operating Procedure (POP) defines the procedures for sealed-screen groundwater profiling. Sealed-screen samplers typically consist of a PVC or stainless steel screen nested within a sealed, water-tight sheath. This procedure is used as an efficient means of collecting screening-level groundwater data such as water quality parameters and contaminant concentrations. The data quality should be sufficient enough such that informed decisions can be made when delineating contaminant plumes, inferring source areas, identifying other potential soil sample locations and/or locations for permanent monitoring well installation, and performing contaminant fate and transport evaluations.


The health and safety considerations for the work associated with this POP, including both potential physical and chemical hazards, will be addressed in the site specific Health and Safety Plan (HASP). In the absence of a site-specific HASP, work will be conducted according to the AECOM Health and Safety Policy and Procedures Manual and/or direction from the Regional Health and Safety Manager.

3.0 Interferences

Sealed-screen samplers generally are limited to collecting one sample per advance of the sampler. Because the screen is not exposed to the formation as the sampler is advanced into the subsurface, the screen does not become plugged or damaged. In addition, the potential for cross contamination is greatly reduced and a depth-discrete sample that is representative of the target sampling zone can be collected. However, depending upon the system used, multi-level sampling in a single borehole can be accomplished with sealed-screen samplers by retrieving the sampler and decontaminating it or replacing it with a clean sampler before reentering the hole to collect another sample. The potential for cross contamination may be minimized by purging the screen point prior to collecting a sample. This profiling process may be conducted with an understanding of data quality objectives.

Gas bubbles present in discharge tubing during purging and sampling are a problem: Their presence indicates off-gassing from groundwater or poor purging connections in the airline or groundwater tubing. Sunlight can exacerbate this problem when low pumping rates are used. Check connections at the surface. If bubbles persist, check connections at the pump. During purging and sampling, observe the flow of groundwater in the sample tubing and keep the tubing filled with groundwater, removing all air pockets and bubbles, to the extent possible. Gas bubbles may be reduced by increasing flow, if possible, and keeping tubing shaded.

Pump tubing lengths above the top of the drill rod should be kept as short as possible to minimize heating the groundwater in the tubing by exposure to sun light and ambient air temperatures. Heating may cause the groundwater to de-gas, which is unacceptable for the collection of samples for VOC and dissolved gases analyses.


4.1 Sealed-Screen Groundwater Sampler

A sealed-screen groundwater sampler (e.g. Geoprobe Screen Point 22 Groundwater Sampler) is a direct push device consisting of a PVC or stainless steel screen that is driven to depth within a sealed, water-tight sheath and then deployed for the collection of representative groundwater samples. Upon deployment, up to 48 inches of screen can be exposed to the formation.

4.2 Mechanical Bladder Pump

A submersible mechanical bladder pump (e.g. Geoprobe Model MB470 Mechanical Bladder Pump) will be deployed within the sealed-screen groundwater sampler once it has been installed by direct push advancement. The mechanical bladder pump consists of a corrugated bladder which is mechanically compressed and expanded to push groundwater to the surface through concentric tubing. Teflon or Teflon-lined polyethylene bladder pumps are preferred for sampling VOCs. Check valves above and below the bladder control flow direction. The outer tube of the concentric tubing set holds the pump body in place while the inner tube is used to actuate the bladder and transmit water to the surface. The


Page 8


bladder pump assembly must accommodate the ID of the probe rods and screen point which typically is 0.5 inch and be long enough to maneuver past rod joints typically occurring every 10 feet. For example, the Geoprobe Model MB470 Mechanical Bladder Pump has internal components made of stainless steel with an OD of 0.47 inches and an overall length of 26.75 inches with an inlet screen assembly installed

4.3 Inertia Lift Pump

A check-valve affixed to HDPE tubing may be used to withdrawal groundwater from within the screen for purging. The OD of the check-valve should be closely equivalent to the ID of the screen to maximize inertia, as such a surge block may be necessary in conjunction with the check-valve. This method is not preferred for sampling because agitation of groundwater within and around the sample point may result in increased turbidity and sediment load. Samples collected using this method will likely require additional field or laboratory filtration.

4.4 Tubing

Teflon or Teflon-lined polyethylene tubing are preferred for sampling VOCs. Inner tubing diameter should be kept to the smallest size possible to reduce the generation of air pockets during low flow.

5.0 Procedures

5.1 Sealed-Screen Advancement

A direct push rig will advance the sealed-screen sampler to the desired sampling depth. Inner rods will be installed to hold the inner screen in place while the outer sheath is retracted to reveal the screen to the formation. The inner rods can then be removed and the depth to water and total depth of water can be measured using a water level indicator.

5.2 Groundwater Sampling

Samples should be collected in order of decreasing volatility and reactivity so that the most volatile or reactive samples are collected first. The following are general guidelines presented in the order that samples should be collected.

Volatile Organic Compounds

Semivolatile Organic Compounds

Nonvolatile Organic Compounds and Inorganics

During sample collection, allow the water to flow directly into and down the side of the sample container without allowing the tubing to touch the inside of the sample container or lid, in order to minimize aeration and maintain sample integrity.

For metals, collect filtered and unfiltered samples using a 0.45 micron filter for analyses that may be impacted by the elevated turbidity.

5.3 Grouting

Grouting or sealing the borehole with bentonite will be performed during removal of the drill string or following the retrieval of all down-hole equipment.

5.4 Decontamination

All non-dedicated down-well measuring devices (i.e. mechanical bladder pump and water level indicator) will be thoroughly decontaminated before sampling.


Sampling personnel should follow specific quality assurance guidelines as outlined in the QAPP. Proper quality assurance requirements should be provided which will allow for collection of representative samples from representative sampling points. Quality assurance requirements outlined in the QAPP typically suggest the collection of a sufficient quantity of field duplicate, field blank, and other samples.

Quality control requirements are dependent on project-specific sampling objectives. The QAPP will provide requirements for equipment decontamination (frequency and materials), sample preservation and holding times, sample container types, sample packaging and shipment, as well as requirements for the collection of various quality assurance samples such as trip blanks, field blanks, equipment blanks, and field duplicate samples.


Page 9



Groundwater sampling information specific to each sealed-screen groundwater profiling will be recorded in the field logbook or on a field sample collection sheet. Activities common to more than one sampling location, samples collected, deviations from the POP, QAPP, or Work Plan, and any other unusual occurrences will also be documented in the field logbook in accordance with standard documentation procedures.

Unanticipated changes to the procedures or materials described in this POP (deviations) will be appropriately documented in the project records.

Records associated with the activities described in this POP will be maintained according to the document management policy for the project.


8.1 Qualifications and Training

The individual executing these procedures must have read, and be familiar with, the requirements of this POP.

8.2 Responsibilities

The project manager is responsible for providing the project team with the materials, resources and guidance necessary to properly execute the procedures described in this POP.

The individual performing the work is responsible for implementing the procedures as described in this POP and any project-specific work plans.

The entire sampling team should read and be familiar with the site Health and Safety Plan, Work Plan, QAPP (and the most recent amendments), and all relevant POPs before going on site for the sampling event.

9.0 References

United States Environmental Protection Agency. 2001. Guidance for Preparing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). EPA QA/G-6. EPA/240/B-01/004. USEPA Office of Environmental Information, Washington, DC. March 2001.

Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection (CTDEP) 2009. Use of Filters in Groundwater Sampling Technical Guidance Document. June 29, 2009.

United States Environmental Protection Agency. 2005. Groundwater Sampling and Monitoring using Direct Push Technologies. OSWER No. 9200.1-51 EPA 540/R-04/005. USEPA Office of Environmental Information, Washington, DC. August 2005.


Page 10

July 2012 Niton XL3t 600 XRF POP 028

Niton XL3t 600 XRF POP 028


This Project Operating Procedure (POP) provides the proper techniques for safely operating the Niton XL 3t 600 X-Ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzer for field screening of metals, primarily chromium, in soil. The procedure will permit in-situ analysis of soil samples for field decision making and will be used for delineation purposes during the remedial investigation. This procedure is not intended for submission of data to regulatory agencies; confirmatory analysis must be performed by a certified laboratory using EPA total metals methods.

This procedure is to be used in conjunction with the site specific Field Sampling Plan. This procedure is intended to provide the necessary information for setting up and analyzing soil samples with the XRF analyzer and performing associated quality control procedures.

This procedure is to be used in conjunction with the Niton XL 3t 600 XRF Users Guide. This procedure will provide the basic information for set up of the instrument and analysis of soil samples. However, certain custom functions are not covered in this procedure and must be referenced from the instruction manual.

The method sensitivity or lower limit of detection depends on a number of factors including physical and chemical matrix effects and interelement spectral interferences; in-situ analysis and testing of bagged samples are considered field screening procedures. More accurate measurements using XRF are highly dependent on sample homogeneity; samples must be prepared by sieving and potentially grinding to a uniform particle size in order to achieve the most accurate results.

In-situ XRF results alone are not acceptable for determining that a sample is below cleanup levels. In these cases XRF must be performed on a prepared (homogenized) sample and confirmed using a certified laboratory.


The health and safety considerations for the work associated with this POP, including both potential physical and chemical hazards, will be addressed in the site-specific Health and Safety Plan (HASP). In the absence of a site-specific HASP, work will be conducted according to the AECOM Health and Safety Policy and Procedures Manual and/or direction from the Regional Health and Safety Manager.

Field personnel are referred to the HASP for appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for this procedure.

The XRF analyzer contains an x-ray tube; when the x-ray tube is turned on by the user and the shutter is open, as during a measurement, the analyzer emits a directed radiation beam. The instrument should never be pointed at anyone or at any body part. Never point the analyzer into the air and perform a test. Never hold a sample in your hand and perform a test.

Each field analyst must undergo training in safe use of the instrumentation by a manufacturers representative prior to use of the XRF equipment. Protective shielding should never be removed by the analyst or any personnel other than the manufacturer. All maintenance other than that specifically listed in the operating manual must be performed by the manufacturer.

Those operating XRF equipment must be aware of, and comply with, state-specific licensing requirements for the use of XRF analyzers (N.J.A.C 7:28-54.1). A copy of the license should be present with the instrument at all times and available upon request in an audit.

A copy of the United States Department of Transportation (US DOT) compliance statement has been provided with each Niton instrument; this document should be kept in the analyzer case at all times.

The analyst must comply with all safety requirements listed in the instrument specific operating manual.

3.0 Interferences

Physical matrix effects can result from variations in the physical character of the sample. This includes variations in particle size, uniformity, homogeneity and surface condition. As a minimum every effort should be made to thoroughly mix and homogenize samples before analysis. The most accurate data will be obtained if samples are sieved and ground to a uniform particle size prior to testing.

Moisture content of soils and sediments can impact analytical accuracy particularly if the sample is water saturated; moisture levels of 5-20% generally have a minimal impact on accuracy. If field data are to be compared with


Page 11


laboratory generated results, samples should be dried using a convection or toaster oven; a microwave should not be used due to the potential for arcing if metal fragments are present in the sample. Studies have also shown poor agreement between laboratory confirmatory analysis and field XRF data when microwave drying is used.

Inconsistent positioning of the sample in front of the probe window can produce errors since the x-ray signal decreases as the distance from the radioactive source increases. The best results are obtained when the sample has a flat, smooth surface and the probe window is in direct contact with the surface.

Chemical matrix effects can occur in soils contaminated with metals and result from spectral interferences (peak overlaps) or as x-ray absorption and enhancement phenomena. Peak overlaps occur when certain x-ray lines from different elements are close in energy; the degree to which these peaks can be resolved is dependent upon the instrument detector.

Elevated levels of vanadium have been documented as a potential interference for chromium. Absorption occurs when one element tends to absorb the x-rays of a second element reducing the detectors measurement of the intensity of the second element. Less common are interferences resulting from K/L, K/M, and L/M line overlaps; this interference can cause difficulty in detection of arsenic in the presence of high levels of lead.

Ambient temperature changes can result in instrument drift. The analyst should review the instrument instructions for the optimal operating range of the instrument and assess the accuracy of instrument response through periodic analysis of blanks and QC check samples.


The following equipment and materials are required for sample analysis using this technique:

Niton XL 3t 600 XRF

Niton XL 3t 600 XRF Users Guide, Version 6.5

U.S. DOT Compliance Statement and any state required licenses

Battery charger and spare battery

National Institute of Standards and Testing (NIST) certified standard reference material(s) (SRMs) or similar standards from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) or commercial sources.

Reference standards and samples provided by the instrument manufacturer

Blank sample of clean quartz, Teflon, or silicon dioxide

Trowel for smoothing soil surface or collecting sample

Plastic bags for collection and homogenization of soil samples.

Field logbook and pen

Level C PPE

Camera (optional)

5.0 Procedures

5.1 Initial Setup

Don the PPE as instructed in the site-specific HASP.

To turn on the analyzer depress the on/off/escape button on the control panel for 10 seconds; the start screen will appear and begin a 10 second countdown. When the log on screen appears, press anywhere on the screen to continue. Acknowledge the radiation warning by pressing Yes and enter the security code for the device.

Confirm that the date/time display is correct. Refer to the Niton XL3t 600 Users Guide for specific instructions on navigation through the menu. If the instrument has been turned off for more than 30 minutes allow a 10 minute warm-up period before calibration. Select Calibrate and Test and press Clear/Enter to begin the self calibration; when the instrument beeps the calibration is complete and the instrument is ready for use.

For the purposes of in-situ measurements, the instrument will be operated in the Standard Soil Mode. Select Standard Soil Mode from the Bulk Analysis Menu. Calibrate the instrument using the soil


Page 12


standards supplied by Niton immediately after the instrument completes self-calibration. The standards should be tested every 1- 2 hours during the analysis day and at the conclusion of testing for the day to ensure that no drift has occurred. All calibration procedures and the results of standard check samples must be recorded in the XRF logbook. Until control limits specific to the XRF unit being used are established control limits of 20% of the true value should be used.

The Niton XL3T 600 offers six modes of operation for soil samples. It is expected that the Easy Trigger method will be used for in-situ measurements. Using this technique the measurement window is placed against the sample and the trigger is pulled once to initiate the analysis. The instrument constantly checks the backscatter measurements to determine if a sample is against the measurement window and will shut off any radiation directed through the window if it determines there is no sample present.

The analyzer will display the results screen throughout the duration of the reading; once the reading is complete, the screen will display the final results of the measurement.

5.2 Sample screening may be performed by holding the probe directly on the soil or on a bagged sample. Clean

the measurement window between samples using a cotton swab.

Remove any obviously non-representative materials such as leaves, vegetation, roots, or concrete from the sample; use caution that COPR related materials are not removed from the sample. Finer and more homogeneous material will yield more accurate results. Increased accuracy can be gained by loosening the soil and letting it dry in the sun prior to testing. The soil sample should not be saturated with water; the XRF technique will generally not produce reliable results if ponded water exists on the surface.

Use a trowel to level the surface of the soil. Hold the XRF in one hand and place the instrument window flush against the surface of the sample to be tested. The four LED lights on the screen will flash to indicate the initiating preconditions have been met (see page 1-45 of the Users Guide); however as a safety precaution the x-ray tube will not turn on immediately and no reading will begin for approximately 0.5 seconds. Watch the display screen to determine when the test is complete; a typical test will take 30-60 seconds. To end the test simply release the trigger mechanism.

If direct measurement of the sample is not possible, samples may be placed in plastic bags and analyzed without preparation. However, since the measurement is made through a plastic bag, test results can be 5-10% lower than those obtained by direct measurement. Place 50-100g of soil in a clean zipper locking bag (approximately 1- mil thick polyethylene bag is recommended) removing any obviously non- representative material. Mix the sample thoroughly by kneading the bag and flatten the bag of soil to form uniform layer of approximately 0.5 inch thickness. Place the XRF flat against the bag and take a measurement as described in Section 5.2.2. Do not hold the bag in your hand during testing.

5.3 Download the stored data and spectra to a computer or directly to a database; erase the stored data from

the XRF once you have confirmed that all results have been successfully downloaded. Do not attempt

to take measurements while downloading readings, this will generate an error requiring a system

reset and may corrupt stored readings.

5.4 Routine maintenance procedures include cleaning and replacement of the measurement window.

Keep the transparent measurement window covering the analysis window clean.

Clean the measurement window gently with a cotton swab. Clean the body of the analyzer with a soft cloth. The touch screen may be cleaned using a lens cleaning solution with a soft cloth; water should not be used. Never use detergents or solvents on any portion of the analyzer or immerse the analyzer in water.

5.4.2 If the measurement window becomes frayed, ripped, or contaminated with metal particulates, replace it with a new window. The Users Guide provides part numbers and instructions for replacement of the windows.

All other maintenance must be performed by an authorized Niton service center. The instrument must be transported and stored in its padded carrying case when not in use.


An energy calibration check should be run at the start of each day of sampling. This check confirms that the


Page 13


characteristic x-ray lines are stable and instrument drift is not occurring. This also provides a gain check if the ambient temperature fluctuates significantly. This test must be run at the start of each day, when the batteries are changed, when the instrument is shut down, and at the end of each day. This procedure should also be run any time the operator believes that drift is occurring during analysis.

A blank consisting of silicon dioxide or a Teflon or quartz block must be run at the beginning and end of each day of analysis and after every 20 samples or every hour of operation during the day or at any time the analyst suspects contamination in the analytical system.

An independent standard must be used to verify the accuracy of the instrument and confirm its stability and consistency for the analyte of interest. NIST, USGS or commercial standards may be used. The standard check must be performed at the beginning and end of each analysis day and after every 20 samples or hour of operation during the day. If the measured value falls outside the acceptance range the check sample must be reanalyzed; if it is still outside the acceptance range the instrument must be recalibrated and any samples analyzed since the previous acceptable calibration check must be reanalyzed.

At least one sample in each set of 20 must be analyzed in duplicate to assess measurement precision. Relative percent difference for duplicates should be 30%.

The field forms and field notes generated from this procedure will be reviewed by the sampling team leader, project manager, or designee. All quality control results must be downloaded to project computer files along with sample data. Any deviations from this POP, problems encountered during the analysis and corrective actions taken must be documented in the field records.


Unanticipated changes to the procedures or materials described in this POP (deviations) will be appropriately documented in the project records.

All data and spectral files must be backed up onto a computer on a regular basis. Any deviations from this POP or problems encountered during the analysis must be documented in a field log book which is dedicated to the XRF analyzer.

Records associated with the activities described in this POP will be maintained according to the specific document management policy for the project.


8.1 Qualifications and training

The individual executing these procedures must have read, and be familiar with, the requirements of this POP.

Sampling personnel must be health and safety certified as specified by Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 29 CFR 1910.120(e)(3)(i) to work on sites where hazardous materials may be present.

Each person who performs this procedure will undergo training offered by the manufacturer such that the procedure is performed in a consistent manner and all safety procedures are followed.

Individual states and countries have specific regulations and guidelines for the use of X-ray tube devices that produce ionizing radiation. For New Jersey site work, the licensing requirements outlined in N.J.A.C. 7:28-54.1 must be met prior to the start of site work.

8.2 Responsibilities

The project manager is responsible for providing the project team with the materials, resources and guidance necessary to properly execute the procedures described in this POP.

The individual performing the work is responsible for implementing the procedures as described in this POP and any project-specific work plans.

9.0 References

United States Environmental Protection Agency. 2001. Guidance for Preparing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). EPA QA/G-6. EPA/240/B-01/004. USEPA Office of Environmental Information, Washington, DC. March 2001.

United States Environmental Protection Agency. 2007. Method 6200, Field Portable X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry


Page 14


for the Determination of Elemental Concentrations in Soil and Sediment, Revision 0. Test Methods for Evaluating Solid Waste, Physical/Chemical Methods, Washington, D.C. January 2008.

New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Site Remediation Program. 1994. Field Manual. Trenton, NJ. July 1994.

Thermo Scientific, Niton XL3t 600 Analyzer Users Guide, Version 6.5. Billerica, MA 2009


Page 15

July 2012 Field Records POP 101

Field Records POP 101

1.0 Scope and Method Summary

This Project Operating Procedure (POP) provides guidance for documentation of field activities associated with AECOM Project operations, including, but not limited to; sample collection, field measurements, and groundwater monitoring well installation. Appropriate documentation of field activities provides an accurate and comprehensive record of the work performed, sufficient for a technical peer to reconstruct the days activities and determine that necessary requirements were met. Field records also provide evidence and support technical interpretations and judgments. The procedures and systems defined in this POP help ensure that the records are identifiable (reference the project task/activity), legible, retrievable, and protected from loss or damage.

Project field data may be recorded electronically or in field logbooks, standardized forms, annotated maps, or photos. This POP provides general guidance on field recordkeeping; additional details for specific procedures (for example, chain of custody, sample collection) are provided in the POPs for the individual task.

It is expected that the procedures outlined in this POP will be followed. Procedural modifications may be warranted depending on field conditions, equipment limitations, or limitations imposed by the procedure. Substantive modification to this POP will be noted in task-specific work plans and will be approved in advance by the Task Manager. Deviations from the POP will be documented in the project records and in subsequent reports.

2.0 Health and Safety

The health and safety considerations for the work associated with this POP, including both potential physical and chemical hazards, is addressed in the site specific HASP. All work will be conducted in accordance with the HASP.

3.0 Interferences

Not Applicable.

4.0 Equipment and Supplies

The following equipment list contains materials which may be needed in carrying out the procedures contained in this POP. Not all equipment listed below may be necessary for a specific activity. Additional equipment may be required, pending field conditions.

Bound field logbook (preferably waterproof, such as Rite-in-Rain),

Standardized field data sheets,

Black or blue, ballpoint pen with indelible ink,

Sharpie (or equivalent permanent marker),

Site maps,

Clipboard,

Three-ring binder or equivalent,

Camera (optional),

Time piece,

Hand-held electronic recording device (such as Trimble Yuma) (optional), and

Laptop computer or tablet PC (optional).

5.0 Methods

5.1 General Requirements

The field records will contain sufficient detail so that the collection effort can be reconstructed without reliance on the collectors memory.

Pertinent field information will be recorded legibly in a logbook and/or an appropriate standardized form (as described herein). Entries should be made with a ballpoint pen with black or blue indelible ink or a


Page 16


permanent marker. Pencils should not be used. If a ballpoint pen or permanent marker cannot be used because of adverse weather conditions (rain or freezing temperatures) and only a pencil can be used, an explanation must be included in the logbook and the affected data should be photocopied, signed as verified copy, and maintained in the project files as documentation that the data has not been changed.

Entries will be signed and dated. No erasures or obliterations will be made. A single line strikeout will be drawn through incorrect entries and the corrected entry written next to the original strikeout. Strikeouts are to be initialed and dated by the originator.

Entries will be factual and observational (i.e., no speculation or opinion), and will not contain any personal information or non-project-related entries. Abbreviations and acronyms should be defined.

Field information will be recorded timely information recorded significantly after the fact will be dated as such.

Field activities and other events pertinent to the field activities will be documented in chronological order. Times will be recorded using military time or Eastern Standard Time.

5.2 Field Logbooks

The cover and binding of each logbook will be labeled to identify the operation and dates included with the logbook; each page in the logbook will be consecutively numbered. Pages will not be removed or torn out of the logbook.

The title page of each logbook will contain the following:

AECOM contact, AECOM office location, and phone number;

Project name and AECOM project number; and

Start and end dates of work covered by the logbook.

At the front of each logbook will be a page cross-referencing each authors printed name, signature, and initials. A page header will appear on the first page of each days notes in the logbook, and activities for each day will be recorded on a new page. The page header will include:

Name of author and other personnel on site (and affiliated organization if applicable);

Date;

Time of arrival;

Proposed activity (task); and

Current weather and weather forecast for the day.

An abbreviated header, containing at least the date, authors name, and project number, will appear at the top of each additional page for the active date. Field forms require similar header information. The field logbook will provide a chronology of events. At a minimum, documentation in a logbook will include the following (unless documented on a standard form):

Names of visitor(s), including time of arrival and departure, the visitors affiliation, and reason for visit;

Summary of project-related communications, including names of people involved and time;

Time daily work commences and ceases;

Start and stop times of new tasks;

Start and stop times of significant stand-by time (work interruptions);

Safety or other monitoring data, including units with each measurement;

Deviations from approved scope of work, including the necessary approvals;

Progress updates;

Problems/delays encountered;

Unusual events; and

Signature or initials of author on last page of each days event.

The logbook will cross-reference the field forms if necessary; however, whenever possible, details recorded on the standardized forms will not be replicated in the logbook.

If there are additional lines on the page at the end of the days activities, a line will be drawn through the empty space, and initialed and dated, leaving no room for additional entries.

5.3 Standardized Forms

Standard forms for field data are provided in the electronic project files.

The information collected on any field form may alternately be collected electronically by a laptop computer or electronic handheld device as appropriate.


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The following rules apply to the standardized forms:

Each form will be signed and dated by the person completing the form.

There will be no blank spaces on the form unused spaces will have not applicable or not available explanations.

5.4 Maps and Drawings

Pre-existing maps and drawings that include notations made in the field (for example, relocating of sample locations) will be referenced in the logbook and, like all field records, include the project/task name and number, site identification, and be signed/dated by the person that prepared them.

Maps and drawings will include compass orientation and scale. Sketches will include points of reference and approximate distances to the reference points.

5.5 Photo Documentation

Photographs or videos may be taken by the field team to help document site conditions, sample locations, or sample characteristics. Photographs and videos will be identified in the logbook or on the standard form by a unique numbering system. If photographs are collected by a digital camera, the photograph number will accompany the description of the photograph in the logbook. At a minimum, the date/time the photograph was taken, the general location, a brief description, and the photographers name will be recorded. Additional information may include Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates, direction the photographer was facing, and/or weather conditions. If necessary, an object will be included to indicate the scale of the object in the photograph.

5.6 Electronic Files

Electronically recording devices may include data logging systems, personal digital assistants (PDAs), laptops, tablet PCs, etc.

Sufficient backup systems will be in place to protect against electronic data loss. Information will be saved to a disk or backed up at the end of each day. The backup disk or other media (CD, flash drive) will then be stored in a secure location separate from the laptop, tablet, PDA, etc.

Files will be uniquely identified and will be stored in the project files on the network. An unedited version of the file will be maintained and all subsequent manipulations tracked.


Deviations to the procedures detailed in the POP or approved plans will be noted in the field logbook or other appropriate field form at the time of occurrence. Proposed modifications to the POPs or approved plans will be documented and submitted to the Task Manager.

Logbooks that are taken offsite from the field facility will be photocopied or scanned and filed to mitigate against the loss of historical entries should the logbook be lost in the field.

Field data forms and chain of custody will be filed in the field facility once they have been completed and distributed (if necessary), or at the end of each field day. These documents will be maintained in labeled three-r

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